Wednesday, January 2, 2013

A bustle of holiday excitement filled the room. Enthusiastic dancers took to the floor to
express kindled euphoria. Many fun
activities could be found at all corners of the room ranging from sumo
wrestling to photography.

Dance music ranged from rock hits from years past to many of
today’s popular hits, including the coveted song “Gangam Style” by Korean
artist Psy. Popular songs were
emphasized by the occasional flood of people to the dance floor. Some party participants sung karaoke,
exhibiting some of the unique skills found among those on the autism spectrum.

Jose Luis Fernandez-Garcia, college professor who
specializes in balloon shapes, sits at a table taking requests from party
guests. He was even able to improvise a
balloon bow and arrow. At my request,
he taught me how to shape the balloon properly and create a sword. Even though I lost track of the sword in all
of the excitement, I can now saw that I learned balloon shaping from an expert
who happened to be a Spanish Professor at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. It is great to know that so many
people are willing to learn more about autism which helps prevent ignorance.

Also in attendance was a former Michigan State Basketball
player, Anthony Ianni, who is on the autism spectrum and advocates for autism
awareness. Ianni, who is about six foot
eight, has overcome many challenges in the past to get where he is today. He is certainly a powerful role model for
children on the spectrum as well as their parents.

Dr. Timothy Larbbee, new Associate Dean of the School of
Education attended the party.

“It’s amazing,” Larbbee said which summarized all the
activities in the room.

Even though the
holidays are now over fond memories are savored as we enter 2013; a year of
many opportunities. A sparkling tree
filled a corner of the room, highlighting many long traditions that have
brought happiness to many.

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About Me

An eloquent writer, Ryan is passionate about raising autism awareness. He is working on a book talking about what he thinks autism means.
In his spare time, he plays the clarinet in the Waterford New Horizons Band, attends Oakland University for marketing, and is working to complete the first novel in his fantasy series.